Author:

O. Siddiqui, EPRI Project Manager

Year:

2008

Abstract:

This study is intended to provide utility professionals and policy makers with an understanding of the range of benefits enabled by a Smart Grid infrastructure, with a focus on energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

Results and Findings: First-order estimates of energy savings and CO2 emission reduction impacts were quantified for five applications enabled by a Smart Grid: 1) continuous commissioning for commercial buildings; 2) distribution voltage control; 3) enhanced demand response and load control; 4) direct feedback on energy usage; and 5) enhanced energy efficiency program measurement and verification capabilities. In addition, first-order estimates of CO2 emissions reductions impacts were quantified for two mechanisms not tied to energy savings: 6) facilitation of expanded integration of intermittent renewable resources and 7) facilitation of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) market penetration. The emissions reduction impact of a Smart Grid, based on these seven mechanisms, is estimated as 60 to 211 million metric tons of CO2 per year in 2030.